University of Phoenix MSN Program

*MedSurg32RN* · Aug 23, 2006, 06:48 PM

I think it is a requirement for accrediation unless you took similar BSN courses in a nursing program. I found the Bridge great preparation for the MSN especially nursing theory which other MSN student struggled with I had a much easier time. Ditto with Nursing research. If you are going to try to double courses, this would be the time to do it.

Traveler · Aug 24, 2006, 08:25 PM

It is hard to double up on classes, but I did do it with some of my BSN classes with UoP. I always participated in the teamwork and was usually one of the two on the team that did most of the work- very frustrating. It was difficult to double and I did have to pay some out of pocket. I went everywhere with either paperwork from work or reading and papers for class- every school event I went to, every spare moment I had I was taking full advantage of. I have two childre (11 and 13), work full time 32 hours a week in home health, and usually drive in excess of 500 miles a week. My schedule is pretty full, but I always take my classes very seriously and participate in all of the group work.

Ann

onc_research · Sep 23, 2006, 01:15 PM

Originally Posted by jenbea

I am thinking of starting the RN to MSN in January (I already have BS in non-nursing degree). I just met with an UOP counselor and I still have a few questions. 1) Is it do-able to do the MSN while working full-time? 2) How do people feel about the 6 week classes? Love it or hate it? 3) It's so expensive but the counselor told me I can be done with MSN in about 1 year? Is this true? If so, then paying approx. $28K for MSN for 1 year is worth it. Thanks for any advice and comments you all can offer.

Hello jenbea,
Yes it can be done, but you will work hard. I work full time 40 - 50 hours a week. Not to discourage you, there were times I felt that I didn't have a life; I would come home from work and then hit the computer. When I first started I had two weeks break inbetween classes, you don't have to take the breaks. I have a Stafford loan and the maximum break you can have is 28 days, which I took several just for my sanity and to take vacations with my family. I have 9 weeks of classes to complete the MSN Bridge program, making the program for me about 2 years to complete. It didn't matter whether I finished in 1 year or two, my main goal is that I finish the program. The 6 weeks go by quickly and it is easy to fall behind.
Good luck.

macuser555 · Sep 23, 2006, 01:30 PM

Thank you for all the responses, comments, and advice. I am still undecided about this program, as the cost seems prohibitive. I am going to apply to The University of Cincinnati Master's program. I think the cost would be less. If that doesn't work out - then may the U of P.
Ildiko

jaded_nurse · Sep 30, 2006, 09:18 AM

i did my BSN at UOP, and am five classes from completion of my MSN/MHA/MBA. I could not imagine going back to a traditional class room now. It took me 11 months for the BSN and will take 21 months for the MSN/MHA/MBA program. I will say that most emoloyers are impresed that you are able to work full time and finish a degree online (the perception is that online classes are much more difficult than regular classes). Hope you have a good experience with UOP. Good luck!

momentum · Sep 30, 2006, 11:15 AM

Thanks Jaded_Nurse and everyone else for their input. This is very helpful. Still deciding... UOP is more expensive but I think I can get done faster.

momentum · Sep 30, 2006, 11:19 AM

Originally Posted by catlady

I finally made the decision to go with UofPhx. I start the orientation class next week. I am going to try to petition for waiver of at least some of the bridge coursework. Has anyone done this successfully?

Would love to network with anyone going through the program or just starting it.

Good Luck. Let us know if you're successful.

dansmom6 · Oct 12, 2006, 09:55 PM

Thanks everyone for your input! I am in the process of deciding about switching from a traditional MSN program to an online program. I feel I am away from my family too much, along with working full time. Reading your comments is really helping me decide!

PreemieNurse · Oct 18, 2006, 08:28 PM

Hello! I'd like to join your group! I graduated BSN in March 06 (UOP) and just about to finish my first class in the MSN Ed track. Theorists! Thank heavens I am almost done, except for this colossal last paper. It's going pretty well so far,though...I'd be happy to contribute in any discussion. While I do like UOP a lot (hence my decision to remain with the MSN program) I abhor the LTs! I am 52, and at this point in my life I have all the experience I need working on a team. I think all LTs do is pull the weak people up so they can get a decent grade..with the strong members who sweat blood and tears getting the work done!

Just my two cents!
Red

PreemieNurse · Oct 18, 2006, 08:35 PM

[quote=PreemieNurse]Hello! I'd like to join your group! I graduated BSN in March 06 (UOP) and just about to finish my first class in the MSN Ed track. Theorists! Thank heavens I am almost done, except for this colossal last paper. It's going pretty well so far,though...I'd be happy to contribute in any discussion. While I do like UOP a lot (hence my decision to remain with the MSN program) I abhor the LTs! I am 52, and at this point in my life I have all the experience I need working on a team. I think all LTs do is pull the weak people up so they can get a decent grade..with the strong members who sweat blood and tears getting the work done!

Just my two cents!
Red

:wakeneo: Never, never, never give up!
Winston Churchill